Assignment Questions

Common Instruction Words

Investigate a situation or a topic in detail; break it down into key parts;

analyse
explain how these relate to each other.
argue Make a case for a particular position based on appropriate evidence.
Describe the positive, negative and disputable aspects of something
assess
and use this to make a case for its value or use.
Identify main issues or ideas, then express an opinion based on
comment on
evidence.
Identify the main similarities between two or more items, theories etc.
compare Explain why these similarities are important and any effects they might
have.
Identify the main differences between two or more items, theories etc.
contrast Explain why these differences are important and any effects they might
have.
Identify the main aspects or characteristics of an idea, topic, event or
describe
theory etc. without interpreting it.
Consider both sides of an issue, providing evidence for and against,
discuss
and come to a conclusion based on the points presented.
Explain the strengths and weaknesses of something, concluding from
(critically) evaluate
this its importance or usefulness.
examine Look at a topic or situation in depth and investigate the implications.
Show how and why something happens or is constructed in a
explain
particular way.
Explain in what ways a proposition, issue, event, theory etc. is true and
to what extent is…?
in what ways it is not.
identify Decide on and describe the main features of something.
illustrate Use examples and evidence to explain an abstract concept.
Give valid reasons, arguments and evidence for a view point or
justify
interpretation.
Describe the main points of a theory, situation, topic etc. Do not
outline
include examples or details.
Show the relationship or connections between events, ideas, theories.
relate
Consider their effects on each other.
state Explain the main points of an idea or topic.
State the main points, or key information. Do not include examples or
summarise
details.
Identify and describe the stages/ events in the development of an idea,
trace
subject or procedure.

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 Assignment Questions

Other words or expressions used in assignment

questions
assumption Something which is accepted as being true for the purpose of an
argument.
concept An important idea that you should use to help you answer the question.
concise Short, brief.
in the context of Referring to a particular situation or subject.

criteria Standard, aspects or issues to use when you are answering the
question
factor(s) The causes or circumstances bringing about a result.
function What something does, its purpose.
implications Results, or suggested results that are not obvious.
issue An important topic for discussion; something worth thinking and raising
questions about.
limitations The restrictions placed on something; where something is not useful or
relevant.
methodology A system of methods or principles for doing something; often used to
explain methods or approaches for carrying out research in a particular
area of study or activity.
objective It is the point or the thing aimed at, (the goal). It is what you want to
achieve by a particular activity.
with (or in) reference In relation to or on the subject of… (what is stated in the question).
to
role What part something plays, how it works, especially in co-operation
with other parts.
scope The extent of the area or subject that something deals with, or which is
relevant.
significance The importance of something; the meaning.
valid/validity Is there evidence? is it logical or factually sound? Does it prove the
statement?

COPYRIGHT © LEARNING SKILLS I MACQUARIE UNIVERSITY LIBRARY 2020